Tocal College completes 31st cultural exchange with agricultural college in Japan

TOCAL Agricultural College hosted 26 students and two staff from Japan’s Gifu Prefectural Agricultural College last week as part of its long term cultural exchange program.

The program began in 1992, with this year’s exchange marking the 31st visit by Gifu students.

NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Director of Education Tocal Darren Bayley said the visit provided students with a unique opportunity to experience Australian agricultural education firsthand.

“The cultural exchange program allows students to experience not only the practical side of Australian agriculture but also the values and innovation that are the staples of the agricultural industry in Australia,” Mr Bayley said.

“This exchange is about sharing students’ knowledge and experiences with one another, whilst also building connections and a broader understanding of agricultural and horticultural production and international markets.

“Programs like this strengthen global collaboration in agriculture and are a cornerstone of this global connection.”

Following their time at Tocal, the group visited local farms, explored the NSW DPIRD Research facility at Ourimbah, and toured the bustling Sydney Markets at Flemington.

The visit concluded with sightseeing in Sydney’s CBD, offering a well-rounded experience of both rural and urban Australia.

The Gifu delegation also enjoyed a farm tour featuring a sheep-shearing demonstration and hands-on insights into calving assistance and neonatal calf care using “Dystocia Daisy”, a realistic bovine simulator.

An official welcome morning tea in the Dining Hall included formal addresses and an exchange of gifts.

Mr Bayley said by learning from each other, future farmers and educators are equipped to meet the challenges of a changing world.

“Tocal is proud to host students from Gifu Prefectural Agricultural College. These visits highlight the importance of cultural understanding and the role it plays in advancing agricultural education internationally,” Mr Bayley said.

“We look forward to continuing this partnership for many years to come, fostering innovation, sustainability, and friendship across borders for many years to come.”

Tocal College is renowned for its international engagement and regularly welcomes professional agriculturalists, educators, and trainers from across Australia and around the world.